LogoA logo in a stroked circle shapeChevron DownAn of a chevron pointing downChevron RightAn of a chevron pointing rightChevron LeftAn of a chevron pointing leftNav CloseAn icon of a close icon for the nav menuHeartAn icon of a heart to represent liking a post.CommentAn icon of a speech bubble to represent commentsSearch IconA logo in a stroked circle shapeCloseAn x-shaped icon for closing ui elementsMenuA hamburger icon to represent the menu toggleTwitterAn icon of the Twitter logoFacebookAn icon of the Facebook logoLinkedInAn icon of the LinkedIn logoInstagram LogoAn icon of the Instagram logoYouTubeAn icon of the YouTube PlayheadChevron - DownIcon of a chevron pointing downChevron - RightAn icon of a chevron pointing rightChevron - LeftAn icon of a chevron pointing leftSkip to the main content

Axe and Saw Safety

Quinn McKinney – November 29, 2017

Within the Scouting movement we often talk about having great, safe adventures. In Scouting we are given the opportunity to use certain tools that we wouldn’t use in our daily lives. Before we are able to use these tools, we are taught proper techniques and are presented permits in order to ensure the safety of ourselves and those around us.

Knives and fires are most commonly thought of when discussing permits; however, it is vital to remember that there are many other tools that are used around camp and require just as much, if not more attention.

Axe and saw safety tips can be found on the Scouts Canada website and should be reviewed when you plan to use the tools. Sometimes depending on your Scouting year you can have extended periods where you aren’t using your axes and saws, so also be sure to set time aside to sharpen them before using them!

Below you will find a short quiz on axes and saws to refresh your knowledge. Answers can be found preceding the quiz and don’t forget to check out the Scouts Canada manual on axe and saw safety in order to fully refresh your knowledge if you struggle to answer the questions. Stay safe and happy Scouting!

Take the Axe and Saw Safety Quiz

What type of axe/hatchet should you be using to cut through the grain of wood?

Hatchet

Felling Axe

Splitting Axe

When establishing a safe chopping area, how large should the radius of the circle be and what is the name of the zone, respectively?

2 X the length of the axe, Blood Zone

2 X the length of the axe + arm length, Danger Zone

3 X the length of the arm + axe length, Danger Zone

3 X the length of the axe + arm length, Blood Zone

What things are you looking for when inspecting your axe prior to use that indicate that you should not use the axe?

The head is not secure

The head and the handle don’t line up straight

The blade is cracked or chipped

The handle is chipped, split or otherwise broken

All of the above

What type of axe/hatchet should you use to split the grain of the wood?